UPPP (UP3)

When it comes to sleep disorders, one of the most common is sleep apnea. This is a condition in which the throat closes during sleep, causing patients to wake briefly to reopen the airway. While this may sound harmless, it can occur hundreds of times per night, which drastically reduces a patient’s quality of sleep.

UPPP, otherwise known as UP3, is a way of directly handling excess tissue that contributes to sleep apnea. As a board-certified ENT, Dr. Shervin Aminpour can deliver this procedure with effective, lasting results. If you suffer from sleep apnea, it may be time to consider UPPP.

How it works

UPPP is a surgical method of removing tissue that is too bulky in the mouth and throat. The specific tissues that may be removed include:

The uvula

Part of the soft palate

The tonsils

The adenoids, which are soft tissues between the back of the nose and the throat

UPPP is different for each patient. Therefore, the first step is a thorough examination so Dr. Aminpour can determine which tissues need to be removed. Once this is done, he will give you a full review of his findings so you can have a complete understanding of what’s to be done.

During UPPP, Dr. Aminpour will use a combination of radiofrequency, laser techniques and direct surgical excision to achieve the desired results. Whatever tissue he is working on, he will do so with precision and care, ensuring that no damage is done to the surrounding tissues. Through his surgical expertise, Dr. Aminpour is able to improve the respiratory system while keeping all functions of the throat and mouth intact.

UPPP is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure takes anywhere from 1–3 hours. UPPP may also be combined with tongue base reduction if necessary.

UPPP recovery

After UPPP, the initial discomforts starts to pass in 2-3 days following the procedure. Dr. Aminpour will prescribe liquid pain medicine to control discomfort, which can be administered for the first week following surgery. Patients should only consume soups and liquids for the first 2 days after surgery, and after that they may eat soft foods for the next 1-2 weeks. It is important for patients to know that we are there for them at any point after their surgery. If there are any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us.

Dr. Shervin Aminpour is a board-certified ENT in Los Angeles, California. He regularly treats patients with any issue relating to the ear, nose or throat, including sleep apnea. If you are suffering from sleep apnea or any other ENT condition, please give our office a call. We will be happy to help.

*The content/images on this website are not a guarantee of individual results. Individual results may vary. The information provided on this site is for general informational purposes only, and does not replace the need for a formal consultation.